Toyota RAV4: Maintenance and care - Do-it-yourself service precautions

If you perform maintenance on the Toyota RAV4 yourself, follow the correct procedures described in the applicable sections and use suitable tools and protective equipment. Do not begin a task unless you understand the required steps and can complete the work safely.

Maintenance

WARNING

The engine compartment contains mechanisms and fluids that can move unexpectedly, reach extremely high temperatures, or become electrically energized.

To reduce the risk of death or serious injury, observe all of the precautions below whenever inspecting or servicing the engine compartment.

■ When working in the engine compartment

• Keep your hands, clothing, hair, and tools away from the cooling fan, engine drive belt, and other moving parts. Loose items can become caught without warning and cause severe injury.
• Do not touch the engine, radiator, exhaust manifold, or nearby components immediately after driving, as these surfaces may remain extremely hot. Engine oil, coolant, and other fluids can also retain enough heat to cause burns.
• Never leave paper, cloths, rags, or other easily combustible materials inside the engine compartment. Contact with hot surfaces or electrical components could cause them to ignite.
• Do not smoke, create sparks, or bring an open flame near fuel-system components or the battery. Fuel vapors and gases produced by the battery are flammable and can ignite or explode.
• Use extreme care when working around the battery. It contains poisonous and highly corrosive sulfuric acid that can cause serious injury if it contacts the skin, eyes, or clothing.

■ When working near the electric cooling fan or radiator grille

Make certain that the engine switch is off before placing your hands, tools, or clothing near the fan or radiator grille.

When the engine switch is in ON, the electric cooling fan can start automatically if the air-conditioning system is operating and/or the engine coolant temperature is high. The fan may begin rotating without an additional warning.

■ Safety glasses

Wear suitable safety glasses to protect your eyes from falling debris, flying particles, pressurized fluid, and accidental splashes while performing maintenance work.

NOTICE

■ If you remove the air cleaner filter

Do not drive the vehicle with the air cleaner filter removed. Dirt, dust, and other airborne particles can enter the engine and cause accelerated internal wear or reduced engine performance.